Another useful concept for navigating the process of change, whether it is initiated by us or from the outside, is that of support. All growth and development requires adequate support in order to be successful.
Support does not mean the same thing to all people. What are your particular needs? Take some time to identify what support means to you. What works for one person may not work for another. Also, you may need different types of support at different times as you navigate the stages of change. It is always wise to have a variety of tools available to help you navigate change as well as your path in life.
So begin by asking what support means to you. What types are important to you? Where can you look for that help? This includes people, places and things! How often will you need these resources? Obviously there will be things you can do for yourself, but you may also need others. Who are they? Can you ask them ahead of time to be available to ensure that what you need will be forthcoming? Do you need professional support, a group or some skill building?
Having a list of all the ways that you may be able to offer yourself support can be useful. When we are stressed our thinking mind tends to shut down and we may not be able to sort out what we need. If it is available to you in written form it can really strengthen your chances of success.
Perhaps also writing out the positives that will result from the change you are going through can help give you some confidence when the going gets rough. You may also want to write out some encouraging statements on index cards and carry them with you. A friend who has committed to be an aid can be of invaluable help especially if they have gone through similar circumstances.
These approaches may seem self evident in a lot of ways, but they tend to be things we overlook maybe because of their simplicity. Nonetheless they can help make a difference in whether you just survive or thrive through transition.
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